dual antiplatelet therapy
Also written as: DAPT — dual antiplatelet therapy
Combination of aspirin with a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor used to prevent thrombotic events in high-risk cardiovascular patients.
Full Definition
Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) consists of aspirin combined with a P2Y12 receptor antagonist such as clopidogrel, prasugrel, or ticagrelor, designed to provide enhanced platelet inhibition for prevention of atherothrombotic events. This combination therapy is standard care following acute coronary syndromes and percutaneous coronary intervention with stent placement, where it significantly reduces the risk of stent thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular death. The duration of DAPT varies based on clinical presentation, stent type, bleeding risk, and ischemic risk, typically ranging from one month to over one year. Treatment decisions require careful balance between thrombotic and bleeding risks, often guided by validated risk scores. DAPT represents a cornerstone of modern interventional cardiology and secondary prevention strategies.
Usage
Usage note: Acronym DAPT is widely accepted; specify specific agents when documenting prescriptions.
In Context
- "The patient was prescribed dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and ticagrelor following acute myocardial infarction." — Discharge summary
- "Guidelines recommend 12 months of dual antiplatelet therapy after drug-eluting stent implantation in most patients." — Clinical guideline